Charlene was born to May (nee McKeever) and the late Michael Whalen on December 14, 1960 in Dumbarton, Scotland. She immigrated to San Francisco, aged 2 1/2 years, with her family where they spent five years before moving to Fremont. Charlene attended Patterson Elementary, Thornton Junior High and American High Schools where she enjoyed sports but was more interested in academic study.

A life-long animal lover, Charlene was an accomplished horsewoman and tamer, able to break and school colts. Her ability to calm horses was in demand by stables and owners. She showed her own horse, Cochise, at equestrian events with great success. Cochise was an Appaloosa who came to her when he was aged nine months and for whom she cared until he was 14 years old.

Charlene's kindness and selflessness endeared her to family and the many friends who sought her counsel. Her compassion for others meant she would always lend an ear to someone in need.

She is survived by her mother May, brother Michael, youngest daughter Jessica, all of Fremont, and by her eldest and middle daughters Stephanie and Jaime, of San Jose, her nephew Michael and many aunts, uncles and cousins in Scotland and the United States.

Charlene was cremated on Saturday, January 23, 2010 in Sutter Creek, California. Her ashes will be transported to Dumbarton, Scotland by her mother and laid to rest with her late father, Michael Whalen.